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H 2813

An Act relative to the fifth member of the public employee retirement systems

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Donato

Bill H 2813 streamlines the appointment of the fifth member on public employee retirement boards in Massachusetts, ensuring timely vacancies are filled by mayors or selectmen.

Read second and ordered to a third reading
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Bill Summary · H 2813

Summary of Bill H 2813: An Act Relative to the Fifth Member of the Public Employee Retirement Systems

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 2813 aims to amend the process for appointing the fifth member of public employee retirement boards in Massachusetts. The intent is to streamline the appointment process and ensure that vacancies on retirement boards are filled in a timely manner, thereby enhancing the governance and functionality of these boards.

Key Provisions

  • Amendment to Chapter 32: The bill proposes an amendment to Section 20 of sub-section (4)(b) of Chapter 32 of the Massachusetts General Laws.
  • Appointment Process: The amendment specifies that if the fifth member of a retirement board is not chosen by the existing four members within ninety days after the expiration or resignation of the term, the appointment will default to:
    • Cities: The mayor will appoint the fifth member, subject to confirmation by the city council.
    • Towns: The board of selectmen will be responsible for the appointment.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Public Employee Retirement Boards: The bill directly impacts the governance of public employee retirement systems in Massachusetts by ensuring that vacancies are filled promptly.
  • Local Government Officials: Mayors and boards of selectmen will have increased responsibilities in the appointment process for the fifth member of the retirement boards.
  • Public Employees: Employees relying on these retirement systems may benefit from more stable and effective governance.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Committee Actions:
    • Referred to the Committee on Public Service on February 27, 2025.
    • Favorably reported by the committee on October 29, 2025.
    • A hearing was scheduled for July 9, 2025.
  • Recent Actions:
    • On November 17, 2025, the bill was read a second time and ordered to a third reading after the rules were suspended.

Conclusion

Bill H 2813 seeks to improve the efficiency of public employee retirement boards in Massachusetts by establishing a clear process for appointing the fifth member. By ensuring timely appointments, the bill aims to enhance the governance of retirement systems, ultimately benefiting public employees and local governments.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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